Live Webcast: From Allina Hospitals & Clinic: August 26, 2008 3:00 PM CDT (20:00 UTC)

ST PAUL, MN -- (Marketwire) -- 08/26/08 -- Allina Hospitals & Clinic patients have another option to consider when faced with the need for surgery. Surgeons at United Hospital are using a new robotic system called the da Vinci S® Surgical System to perform a variety of procedures including prostate surgery, hysterectomies and myomectomies (removal of uterine fibroids).

With the da Vinci S® device, the surgeon is actually seated a few feet away from the patient at a console. The console controls robotic arms holding a tiny camera and special surgical tools. These instruments operate through several small incisions. The camera sends images back to the surgeon who sees them on a 3D monitor. The surgeon makes decisions based on what is shown and sends surgical directions back through the device to be carried out.

According to the National Institutes of Health, at least 25 percent of women have uterine fibroids, the most frequent pelvic tumors seen by gynecologists. They can be treated through medication, hormone therapy or surgery. The da Vinci is the most advanced surgical technique for the treatment of uterine fibroids. Using this approach, many women can avoid more invasive surgery and return home sooner after their surgery.

"For many patients, a robotic myomectomy is the way to go when choosing a surgical approach for the removal of fibroid tumors," said Ragnvald Mjanger, MD. "This robot is technically an extension of my hands.

"I can physically take out a large tumor with very little damage to the tissue surrounding the tumor. Patients get outstanding surgical results with minimally invasive techniques thanks to the da Vinci S®."

"We're excited about using robotic technology to treat cases like uterine fibroids," said Dan Foley, MD, vice president, Medical Affairs, United Hospital. "It's important to provide the best options available when caring for patients.